STDs and Teens

STDs: A Hidden Epidemic

“STDs affect men and women of all backgrounds and economic levels. However, STDs disproportionately affect women, infants of infected mothers, adolescents and young adults, and communities of color. Although 15-24-year-olds represent only one-quarter of the sexually active population, they account for nearly half of all new STDs each year.Some contributing factors in the rise of STDs, particularly among young people, are that teenagers are increasingly likely to have more sex partners at earlier ages, and sexually active teenagers often are reluctant to obtain STD services, or they may face serious obstacles when trying to obtain them. In addition, health care providers often are uncomfortable discussing sexuality and risk reduction with their patients, thus missing opportunities to counsel and screen young people for STDs.” Quote from STDs Today (National Prevention Information Network, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)